The upscale, yet quaint shopping neighborhood of 50th & France, located a few minutes west of the metro, is where a collection of unique shops and stops collide to create a charming cobblestone stretch to explore. This lively intersection and the surrounding blocks boast more than 175 retailers and professional services, overflowing with one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops and dotted with delicious restaurants and quaint ice cream parlors, making it easy to get lost in the enchantment of 50th and France.
Morning: Grab your morning pick me up at Breadsmith, where fresh scones, muffins and breads are handmade daily. What’s better than the freshest of morning baked breakfast goods paired with a freshly brewed cup of java? Possibly the Edina Grill’s roasted veggie hash drizzled in hollandaise, or Salut’s indulgent crepes stuffed with Nutella, bananas and roasted hazelnuts. Once you’re energized with whichever delicious food you chose to dabble, it is time to shop. The avenue offers shops for the trendier, label-conscious set like Bumbershute, high-end consignment at Fashion Avenue, or those seeking quality, bohemian-chic apparel at Bluebird Boutique, Bellesons, and Anthropologie.
Mid-day: A wood-fired, handcrafted mozzarella pie is waiting for you tucked behind the cobblestone walks in a quaint pizzeria and mozzarella bar, Mozza Mia. Or maybe it’s a panini from Arezzo Ristorante, stuffed with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and other deliciously Italian ingredients. Can’t decide? Choose any two to create your favorite Damico & Son’s combination. After lunch, I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream at Edina Creamery. With 1950s black and white checkered floors dotted with red and silver booths and high tops, walking into the neighborhood parlor is like walking into a scene from Grease, starring more than 50 freshly homemade ice creams, frozen yogurts and dairy free options. Check out Sweet Retreat—a shop dedicated to the most beautiful and mouth-watering cupcakes you’ve ever seen…or tasted.
Evening: Snag a seat in the Edina Landmark Cinema for an evening flick. After that your palate might be ready for Cocina del Barrio’s mouthwatering chicken and black bean tostado, which you can pair with perfect tequila infused beverages. Rice Paper is home to a delicious coconut dish (your choice of shrimp or tofu) drizzled with scallion oil, jasmine rice, and coconut sauce, sprinkled with toasted coconut flakes and sesame seeds. If you’re in need of some comfort food, Pig & Fiddle has you covered with their gourmet grilled cheese.
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